15 Home Repair Hacks That Were Passed Down Like Gold
Countless home repair hacks have been passed down through generations and are trusted for their simplicity and effectiveness. Family members and neighbors frequently shared these time-tested tips, making home maintenance easier without the need for expensive tools or professional assistance.
- Tricia Quitales
- 5 min read
Home repair does not always have to be complicated or expensive. Many of the best fixes are simple, passed down from one generation to the next. They provide practical solutions to make our homes safer and more comfortable. This article delves into 15 useful home repair hacks that have been treasured over time.
1. Baking Soda for Clogged Drains
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When a drain becomes clogged, many people resort to harsh chemicals. Baking soda mixed with vinegar, on the other hand, is a natural solution that can remove most minor blockages. This simple, eco-friendly method has been passed down through generations, allowing homeowners to avoid expensive plumbing bills.
2. Fixing Scratched Wooden Furniture with Walnuts
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If your wooden furniture has scratches, simply rub a walnut over the affected area. The walnut’s oils fill in the scratch, making it almost invisible. This quick fix was a well-kept secret, keeping many wooden tables and chairs looking brand new.
3. Use Toothpaste for Small Wall Holes
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A small hole in the wall caused by a nail or screw can be easily fixed with toothpaste. Simply apply a little toothpaste to the hole, smooth it out, and allow it to dry. This hack, passed down over the years, is ideal for quick touch-ups before painting.
4. WD-40 for Squeaky Doors
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A squeaky door can be frustrating, but there is a simple solution: WD-40. Spray the lubricant on the hinges, and the squeaking will stop immediately. This handy tip has been around for decades and is one of the simplest home repairs.
5. Vinegar and Water for Window Cleaning
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Instead of expensive glass cleaners, a vinegar and water solution will leave your windows sparkling clean. This all-natural solution is effective and has been used by homeowners for generations to achieve streak-free glass. It’s simple to make and environmentally friendly, making it a popular home repair hack.
6. Removing Pet Hair with Rubber Gloves
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Pet hair on furniture or clothing can be difficult to remove, but rubbing a rubber glove over it is a simple solution. The rubber creates friction, which pulls the hair away, saving time and frustration. This hack was passed down by pet owners who needed a quick solution to furry messes.
7. Fixing Small Cracks with Crayon Wax
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Crayon wax can be a surprisingly effective solution for small cracks in painted walls. Rub the crayon over the crack, and it will blend in with the surrounding paint. This hack was passed down by parents who wanted to avoid repainting an entire wall because of a minor flaw.
8. Use a Hair Dryer for Sticker Residue
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A hairdryer can help remove stubborn stickers or label residue from surfaces. Heat the sticker with the dryer for a few seconds, and it will peel off without leaving any sticky residue. This simple trick has been used for decades and is still one of the quickest solutions for sticker issues.
9. Fixing Furniture Dents with Ice Cubes
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To repair dents in wood furniture, put an ice cube in the dent and let it melt. The water causes the wood to swell back to its original shape, and once dry, the dent is usually less noticeable. This method has been passed down for years and provides a low-cost way to restore furniture.
10. Plunger for Toilet Unclogging
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A plunger is a tried-and-true tool for unclogging toilets and with good reason. The suction it creates is often sufficient to clear even the most stubborn blockages. This home repair hack has saved many people’s lives, and it remains one of the best tools to have in the bathroom.
11. Fixing Leaky Faucets with Tape
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Wrap a plumber’s tape around the base or threads of a leaking faucet for a quick, temporary fix. This can slow or stop the leak until you can complete a more permanent repair. This trick was passed down by those looking for a quick fix before calling a plumber.
12. Repairing Minor Cracks in Tile with Grout
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Minor cracks in tiles can be easily repaired using extra grout. Mix the grout and smooth it over the crack until it matches the rest of the tile. This simple solution has been passed down as an effective way to extend the life of tile floors and walls.
13. Use a Lemon for Cleaning Copper Pots
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Lemon juice is a natural cleaner that can brighten up copper pots and pans. The acid in lemon helps to remove the tarnish and restore the copper’s bright appearance. This home remedy has been passed down for generations and provides an environmentally friendly way to clean metal cookware.
14. Fixing a Broken Lamp Switch with Electrical Tape
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If a lamp’s switch breaks, electrical tape can be used as a temporary solution. Simply tape the switch in a position that allows the lamp to turn on and off. This quick fix was passed down by DIYers who did not want to replace the entire lamp.
15. Use Salt to Clean Cast Iron Pans
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Cast iron skillets are well-known for their durability, but they require special care when cleaning. Instead of soap, pour coarse salt into the pan and scrub with a paper towel. This hack was passed down from home cooks who wanted to keep their cast iron pans in top condition.